U.S. Rep. Kevin Hern announced he will seek re-election, putting an end to speculation that he might pursue the presidency of the University of Tulsa or a late run for governor.In a social media post, Hern said he wants to continue representing Oklahoma’s 1st District and helping President Donald Trump advance his agenda. His decision reflects concerns about preserving Republicans’ narrow House majority, since he would have had to resign to run statewide or take another position. Hern, a senior House Republican leader, enters the race without a known GOP challenger and with two Democrats vying to face him in the general election.
Oklahoma lawmakers are heading into the 2026 legislative session with more than 60 energy-related bills filed, signaling that energy policy will be a major focus. Many of the proposals address concerns around data centers, including their impact on electricity demand, water use, utility rates, and local infrastructure, with some lawmakers pushing for stricter oversight or even a temporary moratorium. Other bills target modernization of the Oklahoma Corporation Commission and broader regulatory and tax issues tied to energy development.
Experts say recent political upheaval in Venezuela could eventually affect Oklahoma’s energy-based economy, but any impact is unlikely in the short term. While Venezuela holds massive oil reserves, uncertainty around its future leadership and political stability makes U.S. energy companies cautious about investing there. Analysts note that long-term changes could influence oil prices and global markets, which would indirectly affect Oklahoma companies. For now, the situation remains more a possibility than a probability, with outcomes hinging on how Venezuela’s government and infrastructure evolve.
Plans are underway to convert a large warehouse in southwest Oklahoma City into a temporary ICE detention and processing center capable of holding up to 1,500 people. Documents show the facility would include detention space, medical areas, offices, and visitor areas, and the federal government may purchase the site, which is not subject to local zoning approval. City officials, including the mayor, said they were not formally notified and have limited authority over the project due to federal jurisdiction.
Weekly Wrap Up
The Second Regular Session of the 60th Oklahoma Legislature convenes February 2nd at 12:00pm.
To see the full legislative calendar, click the link to view the House Calendar and Senate Calendar.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“I am running for Congress to keep fighting for the people of Oklahoma and to help President Donald Trump finish the job we started, “Congressmen Kevin Hern said in a Facebook post announcing his re-election campaign. “Oklahoma deserves a congressman who delivers. I’m proud of our record, grateful for the support of President Trump and the people of the First District, and ready to keep fighting for conservative values.”